MPPN Approves Development Of Social And Physical Spaces In KRT Neighbourhoods

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 (Bernama) -- The National Unity Advisory Council (MPPN) has approved a proposal for the development of social and physical spaces in Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) low-cost strata housing neighbourhoods.

In a statement today, the Ministry of National Unity announced that this initiative aims to empower and strengthen community relationships and development by creating social and physical spaces as integration sites, in line with progressive KRT empowerment efforts. 

"The selected sites are determined by the active participation of the KRT and residents, focusing on densely populated areas and strata housing that either lack communal spaces or have limited communal facilities that need improvement to meet current needs.

"This project is also expected to empower the community by providing them with spaces to gather, interact, and engage in activities that promote a spirit of neighbourliness," the statement read.

The matter was discussed during the MPPN meeting held yesterday at the Parliament Building, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. It was also attended by Minister of Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and 12 council members, who are prominent community figures.

Also discussed during the meeting were the findings of the Development Study on the Social Cohesion Model for Sabah and Sarawak, conducted by a research team from Universiti Malaysia Sabah, which revealed that the level of social cohesion in both states is high. 

"The Social Cohesion Model for Sabah and Sarawak can serve as a guideline for strengthening national unity and integration through various strategies, such as bridging social gaps via human capital development and infrastructure," the statement noted.

During the meeting, Fadillah emphasised that the ministry must enhance its efforts, by collaborating with the private sector, to harmonise Malaysians of diverse races, religions, and cultures, as well as increase dialogue among practitioners of various religions.

Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye was appointed as the MPPN subcommittee chairman, responsible for monitoring and addressing hate speech and provocative statements that may undermine societal harmony and cohesion.

It was then agreed to expand the membership of the MPPN to include additional ministries, specifically the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development.

-- BERNAMA